The Nation Newspaper

Category: Letters

  • Africa and legacy of slavery, colonialism

    Africa and legacy of slavery, colonialism

    • By John Amabolou Elekun

    Sir: The history of Africa is a tale of exploitation, from the transatlantic slave trade that saw millions of Africans forcibly removed from their homelands to the Western capitals that continues to shape the continent’s destiny. The governments of America and Europe have played pivotal roles in both of these oppressive chapters in African history.

    The transatlantic slave trade, which lasted for several centuries, stands as one of the most horrifying episodes of cruelty in human history. European powers and American colonies ruthlessly exploited Africa’s human resources, forcing countless men, women, and children into brutal servitude. Africans were subjected to unimaginable suffering, as they endured forced labour, inhumane living conditions, and a loss of cultural identity.

    The legacy of slavery still lingers in Africa. It left deep scars in the form of fragmented societies, lost cultural heritage, and economic disparities. The wealth extracted from African labour and resources helped build the economic foundations of Europe and the Americas, while Africa was left economically impoverished.

    Neo-colonialism, a term coined by Ghana’s first President, Kwame Nkrumah, describes the continuation of foreign influence over former colonies’ economic, political, and cultural affairs, even after achieving nominal independence. American and European powers have maintained their grip on Africa through economic, political, and military means.

    Multinational corporations and financial institutions from America and Europe exert significant control over Africa’s economies. They dominate key industries, exploit natural resources, and shape trade policies in their favour. This perpetuates a cycle of economic dependency, leaving African nations with limited control over their development.

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    Foreign governments continue to play a role in African politics, often supporting leaders who align with their interests. This interference leads to political instability and a lack of true self-determination for African nations.

    The legacy of slavery and the ongoing struggle against neo-colonialism remain major challenges for Africa. However, there is hope for change. African leaders are increasingly recognizing the need for economic and political independence. Regional collaborations and efforts to reduce foreign dependency are growing, as nations work to reclaim their sovereignty.

    Acknowledging this history is essential, as it helps pave the way for a more equitable and self-determined future for the continent. Africa’s journey towards true independence continues, and the international community must support these efforts to break free from the chains of the past.

    •John Amabolou Elekun,

    Iju-Ajuwon, Lagos

  • Before you say Nigeria is bad

    Before you say Nigeria is bad

    • By Ganiu Bamgbose

    Sir: One funny axiom in Nigeria is the claim that “bad news is good news for the media.” This assertion negatively affects professionalism, ethics, conscience and even patriotism. It has resulted in a media tradition that glorifies exposure over correction, effect over efficiency, and coverage over conduct.

    The disposition of many Nigerians towards everything anti-Nigeria is worrisome.

    First off, even without being an expert in economic discourse, I can tell affirmatively that a dollar is almost as useless to the American as a naira is to a Nigerian, except when we dwell on comparison. The only time the dollar comes like a heavenly currency is when we discuss the exchange rate with the naira. Does a dollar visit the barbershop anywhere in America? Do we still not get our haircut for less than a thousand naira in most parts of Nigeria?

    The question now is: why do we not have this dimension and similar ones foregrounded in the media?

    Moving on to other fields, anyone who has been to European countries, including the UK, will most likely know that those in London have an experience similar to that of Nigerian “molue” (congestion) with both their road and train transportation modes. You may not read this in their media and your countrymen there will not likely talk about it so you do not think less of your impression about being abroad.

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    It is equally not only in Nigeria that you are asked to return to the hospital after two weeks to see the doctor; it happens in many parts of the world, but their citizens think more of progress than condemnation. For whatever reason you want to give, there are thousands of homeless people in America and other developed countries of the world. Those who have been to the US should say if their states require the heavy downpours that we often contend with, leading to occasional struggles with floods. Are bus and train schedules not occasionally cancelled due to floods and other reasons, prompting questions about the government’s actions and inactions?

    Now, let’s discuss actions we take here that we would not consider elsewhere. Anyone who lives in Europe and America and those of us who visit can share whether it is possible to request landlords or the government to extend the rent after just a week or if there is even a law that allows you to be granted six months to find a new apartment. You are indeed dislodged in less than a month if you do not have to pay with an increase. With these experiences, an American will still wake up and say, “God bless America,” when some Nigerians will affirmatively say their own country can never be great again. One wonders why we underestimate the communal virtue that unites us as Nigerians, a trait nearly unmatched elsewhere. If the Nigerian government were to adopt a radical approach to tax collection similar to what is implemented in places we often commend, what would be the next song on our lips?

    I wish to state that every country has their struggles, and patriotism demands citizens to stay positive while seeking responsibility from the government. Critical appraisal of government goes beyond condemnation and fault-finding. While we appeal to the government to do better, we must plead with ourselves to be patriotic, appreciative, and optimistic.

    Most importantly, we need to do less needless comparison, which always makes us appear like the worst country in the world.

    •Ganiu Bamgbose,

    Lagos State University, Ojo

  • Defusing youth unemployment bomb

    Defusing youth unemployment bomb

    • By Sirajaddeen Mohammed Bello

    Sir: Among Nigeria’s many socio-economic challenges, one that stands out as the biggest threat, casting a gloomy shadow over both the present and the nation’s future is youth unemployment. It is a subject that elicits head shakes, furrowed brows, and a sense of impending doom.

    Youth unemployment isn’t just a problem; it’s an iceberg of colossal proportions. National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) stated that Nigeria’s unemployment rate rose to 33.3% in the first quarter of 2023; translating to about 23.2 million people— youths majorly. Now, let’s face it, numbers don’t always tell the whole story. Picture this; some hundreds of thousands, nay, millions of mostly educated, bright young minds stuck in a seemingly endless and almost fruitless game of job hunting— a game where there are fewer opportunities and a mammoth crowd of players. It’s a perplexing paradox, navigating through such a complicated realm that occasionally resembles a labyrinth of bureaucracy and nepotism.

    Now, one might be wondering, why care about this one particular problem, youth unemployment. And even go on to declare it a “time bomb”?  A sizeable chunk of our youths are left idle, grappling with feelings of inadequacy, financial crisis and frustration. Do you think all will end well? This idle energy, if not given the needed attention and channelled constructively, can surely fester and lead to various social ills in unimaginably ugly ways. So, you see? It’s not just a ticking time bomb: it’s an evil fuse that could ignite a powder keg of problems for this country.

    It’s still not too late for the authorities to right this wrong. We’ve analysed the problem to an extent. Let’s talk solutions, because dwelling on problems only, without drawing out remedies is almost like writing a story with no plot.

    Nigeria’s youth is its greatest asset, brimming with creativity and untapped potentials. A serious country can’t afford to let this resource go to waste. More than ever, now is the time to bridge the gap between the skills our youths (are assumed to) possess and the skills demanded by the labour market. Various vocational trainings (not the usual ‘crash’ workshops that hardly change a thing!) and education system tailored to market needs can play a very important role. The government and the stakeholders in the private sector need to collaborate and determine what knowledge and skills young people should be taught in order to have rewarding jobs, taking into consideration how businesses are suffering from the skills mismatch.

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    Government should play a more active role in promoting appropriate education and capacity-building for the youth.

    Another equally important area to work on is entrepreneurship. In a country where the labour market is fiercely competitive, why not encourage more young entrepreneurs? Our youths are teeming with brilliant ideas waiting to be hatched. Government support, access to funds and mentorship programmes can nurture these promising— budding business moguls.

    Then technology and innovation. Nigeria’s burgeoning tech ecosystem offers a great hope. The digital world is surely a place where opportunities abound; for a tech-savvy. Government should then invest in technology infrastructure and create an environment that supports innovation and start-ups, as well as training and mentorship for young people. These, and many other initiatives centred on progress and empowerment can go miles in addressing our plight.

    The evil of unemployment in Nigeria is undoubtedly a ticking time bomb, but it doesn’t have to detonate. By investing in skills development, nurturing entrepreneurship, promoting innovative empowerments and retaining our trademark diligence, among others, we can defuse this albatross and unleash the incredible potentials of our youths.

    •Sirajaddeen Mohammed Bello,

    Yola, Adamawa State

  • State workers as pawns in hands of NLC, TUC

    State workers as pawns in hands of NLC, TUC

    Sir: The national leadership of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and its Trade Union Congress (TUC) counterpart appear to be taking workers on the payroll of state governments for a ride whenever they threaten the federal government with a nationwide strike. The state chapters of these labour unions do not bother to find out the reason behind such strikes.

    For them, the fact that the directive is coming from the national leadership of their unions, led by Joe Ajaero (NLC) and Festus Osifo (TUC) is enough. For that reason, the roof must be pulled down on the head of the presidency unless it does their bidding. As for the state chapters of the NLC, they must dance to their drum beats of war like puppets without considering the relics and rhymes of the drumbeats. That the drumbeats are targeted at the presidency is all but satisfactory to them; whether it is justified or not; whether it is expedient and of any benefits to them does not count. 

    And when the drumbeats of war settle down, the drummers, Ajaero and Osifo can afford to run away from the drums with a bargain of N35,000 additional wage award for federal workers alone!

    They usually leave their pawns in the state chapters wondering what is going on in the end. Workers in the payroll of state governments are always the losers; having joined the bandwagon in futility.

    So far, Ajaero, the belligerent NLC president known for kickboxing has not seen the need to traverse each of the 36 states to call out the workers to shut down their states if the state governors fail to implement the wage award as approved by the federal government. He suddenly went quiet after getting what he requested from the federal government. The various state chapters of the NLC are the pawns on the chess board that he can use anytime to achieve his selfish end whenever the need arises.

    Ajaero and the national leadership of the NLC will always succeed. Not because they are fighting for the masses; but because the leadership of the state chapters of NLC always act emotionally, like the Jews who shouted “Hosanna in the highest” and minutes later “crucify Him”.

    Read Also: Imo: NLC now a political arm of Labour Party – CSOs

    Virtually all the state chapters have not seen the need to come forward to explain to their members the benefits that have accrued to them in allowing themselves to be dragged into the threats of strike against the federal government.

    They have all gone to sleep, except for states like Enugu, Edo and Bayelsa that have keyed into the N35,000 wage award. Others, especially the oil-producing states have turned deaf ears to the wage award.

    For the labour leaders in those states, theirs is to mobilize the state workers to jump onto the bandwagon of the NLC national leadership, so long as the strike is targeted at the administration of President Bola Tinubu. In contrast, in their various states, the governors are emperors whom they must not dare.

    Today, the state chapters are waiting for the next directive from Ajaero to pull down the roof on the head of the presidency for the benefit of federal workers. Surely, the state chapters will always remain the losers after dancing to Ajaero’s drumbeats of war as the case may arise.

    • Ifeonu Okolo, Asaba, Delta State
  • Lagos Assembly’s probe of MDAs 

    Lagos Assembly’s probe of MDAs 

    Sir: The Centre for Anti-Corruption and Open Leadership, CACOL, has received the news that the Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Public Accounts has begun investigation of MDAs in the state as it relates to the Auditor General’s Report about them with great joy.

    It will be recalled that, Hon. Kehinde Olaide Joseph, chairman of the Public Accounts Committee of the assembly, was quoted by media as saying “the exercise was to ensure that the committee’s statutory oversight is used as an antidote to financial recklessness by MDAs in the state and that the consideration of the report is in consonance with the need for improved efficiency and best practices in the pursuit of the statutory objectives of the Public Accounts Committee.

    According to the chairman of the committee, the exercise will cover the period from January 1 to December 31, 2022 as well as the economic activities of all the Ministries, Departments, and Agencies of government in all sectors of the state government. The committee will be inviting all heads of indicted MDAs for clarifications regarding the queries raised in the Auditor-General’s Report to enhance service delivery.”

    The exercise will ascertain the completion, accuracy, and reliability of the financial transactions within the sectors and confirm the level of compliance with financial regulations, relevant legislations, and accounting standards as well as reflect on each sector’s financial performance and position.

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    We at CACOL are very happy to hear of this noble move by the Lagos State House of Assembly. Lagos being the commercial nerve centre of the country with its huge revenue and gigantic projects springing up at different parts of the state must strive to be a shining light to other states by always making those at the helms of affairs at the various MDAs to give account of their stewardship to the residents of the state. 

    We hope the exercise would be carried out without political considerations and it would not be used to settle unnecessary political scores. We also want to urge the committee members to make the results of their investigations public, so that ordinary taxpayers in the street would be able to know what is going on in terms of the finances of the state and also the recommendations of the committee should be put to use by both the executive and legislative arms of government in the state.  

    We want to commend the Lagos State Public Accounts Committee for investigating the activities of these MDAs. The 1999 constitution of Nigeria generally vests the state’s legislature with the power to make laws, although this responsibility is not limited to making laws as a lot of additional responsibility including that of oversight has also been placed upon the legislature. We want to believe that if the current trend by the Public Account Committee of the Lagos State House of Assembly is intensified and sustained with the cooperation of the executive arm of government in the state. Stemming the tide of corruption in the various agencies and parastatals of the state government will not be a herculean task.

    • Tola Oresanwo, CACOL, Lagos
  • Fentanyl crisis: Fact or fable?

    Fentanyl crisis: Fact or fable?

    Sir: Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid, has gained notoriety in recent years due to its potent nature and involvement in the opioid crisis. Originally developed for medical purposes to alleviate severe pain, fentanyl has increasingly found its way into the illicit drug market, leading to a surge in overdose deaths due to its potency and the inability of users to accurately gauge dosage, thus becoming a public health concerns. China remains the primary source of fentanyl and other fentanyl-related substances.

    According to the DEA, only 2mg of fentanyl can be lethal, depending on the person’s body size, past usage, and tolerance. One kilogram of fentanyl can potentially kill 500,000 individuals. A study by The Ridge Ohio, an American-based Addiction Treatment Centre reveals a disturbing statistic, with Fentanyl identified as the primary culprit in an alarming 52.7% of all overdose deaths. The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that in the United States alone, over 593,000 people died from opioid overdoses between 1999 and 2020; 93,000 in 2020 alone with synthetic opioids like fentanyl being a leading cause.

    One of the most significant risks associated with fentanyl is its high potency, which makes it particularly dangerous when used in non-medical settings. Users may inadvertently consume lethal doses, leading to respiratory depression, loss of consciousness, and death. Fentanyl’s presence in the illicit drug market has led to a lack of quality control, making it difficult for users to know the strength or contents of the substances they are consuming.

    Mitigating the impact of fentanyl and the broader opioid crisis requires a multifaceted approach and I must say the effort of the NDLEA is commendable. Prevention efforts which includes education and awareness about the risks of opioid abuse, promoting responsible prescribing practices among healthcare providers, and implementing stricter regulations to reduce the availability of illicit opioids.

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    The NDLEA in recent months have arrested and confiscated consignments of Fentanyl, the arrest of two Onitsha market traders and the Warri Fentanyl gang making it to the top of the list.

    This is a call to the parties involved, especially the Pharmaceutical Council of Nigeria (PCN) and National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to complement the efforts of the anti-narcotic agency in tightening the noose around the necks of these merchants of death.

    The fentanyl crisis demands urgent attention and comprehensive solutions to mitigate its devastating impact on public health. By addressing the supply and demand sides of the issue, strengthening law enforcement efforts, expanding access to treatment and support services, and promoting public education and harm reduction strategies, we can work towards saving lives, reducing overdose deaths, and supporting individuals and communities.

    • Udechukwu Ikenna Valentine, Nnewi, Anambra State
  • Cement Monopoly: Appeal to PBAT 

    Cement Monopoly: Appeal to PBAT 

    • By Kexter E.A Donald Jr.

    Sir: In the heart of our nation, a pressing issue demands our immediate attention – the cement production monopoly that has come to define the industry. Dangote Cement, Lafarge Africa, BUA Cement, and Cement Company of Northern Nigeria (CCNN) stand as the primary drivers, wielding immense influence over pricing and supply. This situation stifles competition, limits choices for consumers, and leads to inflated costs that ripple through various sectors of our economy.

    The consequences of this cement monopoly are far-reaching with perhaps none more evident than the burden it places on the housing market. Rent costs continue to skyrocket, leaving many Nigerians struggling to afford decent, safe housing. This is not just an economic issue, but a matter of social justice and equitable access to a basic human need.

    What further compounds this crisis is the concerted effort by the dominant players to stifle any potential competition. They employ their influence to impede the issuance of licenses to new entrants in the cement industry. This predatory behaviour undermines innovation and stifles the entrepreneurial spirit of Nigerians who seek to contribute to the nation’s economic growth.

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    Mr. President, we are at a critical juncture where the need for action is paramount. I implore you to consider the profound impact that breaking this cement monopoly could have on Nigeria’s economic landscape. By issuing licenses to new entrants, we not only foster healthy competition but also empower a new generation of entrepreneurs to contribute meaningfully to our nation’s growth.

    This is not just an economic matter, but a call for justice and fairness. It is about providing every Nigerian with a fair chance to thrive and contribute to our great nation’s prosperity. It is about dismantling a system that prioritizes profit margins over the well-being of our people.

    I believe, Mr. President, that with your leadership and vision, we have the opportunity to bring about transformative change in this crucial aspect of our economy. Together, let us pave the way for a future where every Nigerian can build their dreams without the weight of economic oppression.

    I humbly urge you, Mr. President, to take this matter into consideration and use your esteemed office to initiate the necessary steps towards dismantling the cement monopoly in Nigeria.

    •Kexter E.A Donald Jr. 

    Kexddy@gmail.com

  • How artificial intelligence is changing our world

    How artificial intelligence is changing our world

    • By John Amabolou Elekun

    Sir: Artificial Intelligence (AI) has seamlessly woven itself into the fabric of our daily existence, revolutionizing the way we live, work, and interact. Its impact is pervasive, touching various facets of our lives with unprecedented advancements and innovations.

    In the realm of daily activities, AI has become an indispensable companion. Smartphones and personal devices are now equipped with AI-driven features that enhance user experience. From predictive text suggestions to facial recognition for unlocking devices, AI has made these interactions intuitive and efficient. Virtual assistants like Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant have become our digital aides, responding to voice commands and simplifying tasks, from setting reminders to answering queries.

    Entertainment and shopping experiences have also undergone a metamorphosis through AI. Streaming platforms use AI algorithms to analyse user preferences and recommend personalized content, creating a tailored viewing experience. Similarly, e-commerce platforms employ AI to suggest products based on past purchases and browsing history, making the shopping process more enjoyable and efficient.

    In healthcare, AI has emerged as a game-changer, augmenting diagnostic and predictive capabilities. Machine learning algorithms analyse medical data to identify patterns and predict potential health issues. Robotics and automation, guided by AI, have transformed surgeries, enabling precision and reducing recovery times. Personalized medicine, tailoring treatments to an individual’s genetic makeup, has become a reality through AI’s analytical prowess.

    Transportation has witnessed a revolution with the advent of AI. Autonomous vehicles, guided by sophisticated AI systems, are reshaping the future of commuting. These vehicles promise safer and more efficient travel, potentially reducing accidents caused by human error. AI is also applied to traffic management systems, optimizing routes to alleviate congestion and enhance overall transportation efficiency.

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    Education, too, has felt the impact of AI. Personalized learning experiences, powered by AI algorithms, cater to individual student needs, adapting content and pacing to optimize comprehension. AI-driven tutoring systems provide additional support, offering students a customized approach to learning. These innovations address challenges in traditional education methods, fostering a more dynamic and responsive learning environment.

    While AI brings numerous benefits, it also raises concerns about its impact on employment. Automation, driven by AI, has altered the job market landscape. Routine and repetitive tasks are increasingly being automated, leading to discussions about job displacement. However, this shift also prompts a focus on upskilling and reskilling the workforce to adapt to the changing demands of the job market. Moreover, AI’s growth has created new job roles in areas like AI development, data analysis, and maintenance.

    As AI continues to evolve, ethical considerations and privacy concerns come to the forefront. Questions about the responsible use of AI, potential biases in algorithms, and the safeguarding of personal data need careful consideration. Striking a balance between technological innovation and ethical standards is crucial to ensuring that AI remains a force for good in everyday life.

    The impact of artificial intelligence on everyday life is profound and multifaceted. From enhancing personal devices to revolutionizing healthcare and transportation, AI is a transformative force that shapes the way we live and interact with the world. While challenges and ethical considerations persist, the ongoing evolution of AI promises even more significant contributions to our daily lives in the years to come.

    •John Amabolou Elekun,

    Iju-Ajuwon, Lagos.          

  • Correct lapses of 2023 polls in Bayelsa, Imo, Kogi

    Correct lapses of 2023 polls in Bayelsa, Imo, Kogi

    • By Dr. Goodluck Uguoji

    Sir: Saturday’s governorship in Bayelsa, Imo and Kogi states presents a golden opportunity for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), led by Prof. Mahmood Yakubu to redeem its image in the eyes of the Nigerian public. About 5.4 million registered voters will be heading to 10,510 polling units spread across 649 electoral wards in 56 local government areas to elect the governors of the three states this Saturday.

    The off-cycle governorship elections are crucial because they are coming after the 2023 general election. In Saturday’s election, the governors of Bayelsa and Imo states are vying for re-election, while their Kogi State counterpart, Governor Yahaya Bello is seeking to install a successor.

    This is the first time that the commission will be conducting three off-cycle governorship elections simultaneously across different geo-political zones. This is made possible by the coincidence of the end of tenure of the current holders of the offices which fall within the constitutional timeframe of not earlier than 150 days or later than 30 days before the expiration of their terms of office as enshrined in the constitution. The commission has been said to have delivered all non-sensitive election materials to the three states.

    Equally, political parties and candidates have commenced full electioneering in what is expected to be keenly contested governorship elections in the three states.

    The recent general election presented Nigerians with numerous challenges and controversies, leading to enormous challenges in the electoral processes. During the election, polls were scheduled to open at 8:30 am and close at 2:30 pm, the same day. However, the report released by an election observer group, Yiaga Africa showed that election officials arrived late to their polling units in many parts of the country; only about 27 per cent of the officials arrived at their polling units on time.

    Such logistics challenges must be addressed. Besides, some voters lamented that INEC officials brought the wrong BVAS to their polling units.

    INEC also received backlash from political parties, observers, individuals and various interest groups for failing to immediately upload polling unit results to the portal before the collation. Some political parties and individuals relied on the glitch to demand the cancellation of the results.

    The upcoming election, therefore, presents the opportunity for INEC to address the gaps recorded during the election by ensuring that it sticks to the laid down rules.

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    Citizens are also looking towards improved logistics deployments throughout the elections. This is expected to be a lot easier for the commission, as it is not an election across the entire country. Hence, prompt delivery of sensitive materials as well as arrival of election officials to their duty posts is expected.

    INEC must prevail on its staff and ad hoc staff to represent the commission in the best light. Punishments must be seen to be quickly dished out when an employee of the commission is seen to engage in acts that promote malpractice.

    The off-cycle elections, if conducted successfully and seen to be free, fair and credible, would go a long way in regaining citizen’s trust in INEC and the electoral system in Nigeria. INEC must grab the opportunity presented by the off-cycle elections with both hands; it must be guided by its standard operating procedure. It must be proactive during the elections by providing information upfront whenever there is a need to do so before, during and after the elections. It should give periodic updates as the elections proceed apace on D-day.

    Security agencies should also play by the rules of engagement and resist the temptation of being used by desperate politicians. The involvement of security agencies in the electoral process must be based on professionalism, neutrality and a commitment to the defence of our democracy, rather than partisan interests.

    The citizens must feel secure in their participation in the electoral process, knowing that their safety and security are assured. It must be conducted in a manner that does not disrupt or influence the outcome of the election.

    •Dr. Goodluck Uguoji,

    Akute, Ogun State

  • Peter Obi: Between recklessness and audacity

    Peter Obi: Between recklessness and audacity

    Sir: Kurt Vonnegut Jr, an American writer and humourist known for his satirical and darkly humorous novels, profoundly posited: “Don’t be reckless with other people’s hearts. And don’t put up with people that are reckless with yours.”

    The trajectory of Peter Gregory Obi is aptly summarized by Vonnegut’s profound statement. Peter Obi was reckless with the emotion and sentiments of the unsuspecting gullible followers.

    Additionally, as posited by “The Holistic Psychologist,” Nicole LePera: “Most people don’t want the truth. They want their beliefs reinforced. The truth is appreciated by those who have control over their ego…who are invested in reality even when it makes them uncomfortable.”

    Could it be a case of blind optimism or arrogance of ignorance that is driving the Obidients’ project? I wished that I am wrong. 

    The presidential candidate of the Labour Party has described the Supreme Court judgment of October 26, as a breach of the confidence of Nigerians in the judiciary. Obi stated this in a statement delivered at a press conference on the Supreme Court judgment.

    The audacity with which these nefarious politicians drag Nigerians into their disappointments is crazy!

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    Dear Presidential-candidate Peter Obi, kindly say the Obidients have lost confidence in the judiciary, not Nigerians. Let it be noted, that the same judiciary returned your mandate to you in 2006 as governor of Anambra State; the same Supreme Court that returned you to office after your impeachment by the Anambra State House of Assembly. Then they were second only to God then!

    Lest I forget, the same judiciary validated your candidature as the standard flag bearer of Labour Party in the recently concluded presidential election. Now that you could not win your petition against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, you want to force Nigerians into disregarding our judicial system.

    There is need to be properly guided to deal with your frustrations alone. Nigerians are already suffering their fair share of the mess you and your colleagues in politics have thrown them into.

    Finally, I like to conclude this with a quote from Leo Tolstoy, Russian writer regarded as one of the greatest authors of all time: “ If the source of power lies neither in the physical nor in the moral qualities of him who possesses it, it must evidently be looked for elsewhere — in the relation to the people of the man who wields the power … Power is the collective will of the people transferred, by expressed or tacit consent, to their chosen rulers. And that is how power is understood by the science of jurisprudence”

    • Richard Odusanya, odusanyagold@gmail.com